Apparatus and method for delivery of instructional information

ABSTRACT

An instructional information delivery system and method based on the storing and retrieving information via an eye-ear-body system optimizes learning. Courses are prepared and presented with help from multimedia tools that present different aspects of the instructional materials. The system and the method complement instructor-led lessons by emphasis on information delivery according to the process of attention to and retention of information by the brain. The information delivery system and method provides for multiple display screens and speakers receiving instructional information based on data that is manipulated according to a set of rules in a multimedia environment. The system allows real time feedback by instructor&#39;s input, control and override so that the lesson is flexible and responsive to the classroom if changes in the learning environment occur.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority from and is related to U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/241,359, filed Oct. 19, 2000 by inventorBernhard Dohrmann, entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SUPER TEACHING”,Attorney Docket Number 59575-011. This application also claims priorityfrom and is related to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/282,877,filed Apr. 11, 2001 by inventor Bernhard Dohrmann, entitled “ENHANCEDAPPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SUPER TEACHING”, Attorney Docket Number59575-013. The contents of the provisional applications are herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

CROSS REFERENCE TO CD-ROM APPENDICES

[0002] This application contains an Appendix containing two copies of aCD-ROM, containing instructions for implementations of various portionsof the computer programs used to carry out the invention disclosedherein. The content of the CD-ROM is described in more detail in paperAppendix A attached to this document.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates generally to the field of teaching, andmore specifically to an interactive multimedia information deliverysystem for teaching.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

[0004] Learning has become more than lectures, taking notes, repetitionsand non-stimulating classrooms. One of the most important elements oflearning has been determined to be “INTEREST” in learning. Bystimulating students' interests, the level of motivation and enthusiasmwill go up and students will less likely be distracted or disinterested.Consequently, interested students will make more efforts in thepreparation, involvement and attendance in classroom lessons, which willenhance the efficiency of educational system. The role of instructors inclassrooms is to create the groundwork for student motivation by makingand keeping them interested.

[0005] Most education experts agree that the success of educationprocess depends on the level of retention of the material, based on thefact that the brain cannot pay attention to everything. The rate ofretention drops in case of uninteresting, boring or emotionally flatlessons since the brain simply drifts off to find other stimulants thatare more interesting and will not remember the uninteresting materials.If a classroom is run such that there are no uninteresting, boring oremotionally flat lessons, the goal of creating an effective and positivelearning surrounding is achieved. If the cold, lifeless and oftencolorless classroom can be converted into a vibrant, full of interest,stimulating multimedia show, students will have higher interest inattending classes and faculty performance will be elevated. An oftenfrowned upon characteristic of a successful educational experience is“fun” for both faculty and students in day to day learning. Students paymore attention to the lessons that are presented in a way that is “fun.”Elevated student interest in classroom learning becomes foundation forimprovements in other learning techniques and resources such as fieldtrips, research and independent studies.

[0006] In the past, computers and interactive software were thought topositively impact learning and improve test scores. In the early dayswhen computers started to move into classrooms, educators anticipatedsuperior performance from these tools and methods. However, the resultswere different from what was originally expected. It has become widelyaccepted that computer technology in the classroom fails to teach, toaccelerate overall comprehension and to hold student attention overtime. There is no doubt that live instructors teach learners and have nosubstitute or replacement in the learning process for human beings. Itis impossible to automate live instruction since only live instructorscan sense the mood of the student body and attend by instinct and art tothe velocity, momentum and acceleration of day-to-day learning. Humansare social learners and require social learning in classrooms in whichthe meaning of the social experience in terms of context, community,state and nation may be fully understood. With this rapid realization,computers are mainly used to assist students to CONFIRM that which isalready LEARNED rather than to impart the learning itself.

[0007] Later, virtual reality devices provided no further improvementover computers. Therefore, the mere application of computers in theclass room did not make much improvement and represented misappliedresources, wasted opportunity dollars, and now can be defined as amistake based on performance evaluation and test scores. Need for ateaching tool that would employ the benefits of new technologies andenhance learning was felt.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0008] The present invention provides to instructors and students acomprehensive tool for information delivery and education that conformsthe classroom to the way learning is actually achieved. The developmentof the invention, which is called Super Teaching, is based on researchresults which indicate that for human beings, each a highly differentiallearner, tri-screen delivery of information works to elevate humanconcentration patterns by “leading” the mind, rather than having themind on “pause” waiting for information to move forward. Technologyassisted teaching produces superior results evidenced by improved testscores compared to those without technology assistance. The presentsystem and method provides a saturation learning environment thatstimulates both left and right sides of brain. In this type of learning,with more integrated involvement from instructor and multimedia system,higher level of retention is obtained compared to when instructorassistance or the automated system is missing from the class roomexperience.

[0009] Another aspect of the invention is based on its ability toimplant stronger and more powerful impressions in more brain locations.Thus, the possibility of dynamic and involuntary recall of newlyacquired information is increased. These conclusions are drawn, in part,from the study of brain waves, and in part from the work citing thesummary total of redundant display of information using teachingassistance resource of the present invention, vs. when such assistanceis not provided. Information is presented repetitively both in auditoryas well as visual format which is retained and recalled moreeffectively.

[0010] According to another aspect of the invention, the brain,operating within a classroom environment equipped with the presentinventions, is focused on teaching led by the information deliverysystem at a higher level. The well-known issue of “mind wandering”within any context of human communication is significantly defeatedwithin an assisted environment. The brain is held on the topic by randompatterns presented to human senses using the present informationdelivery system. The obtained effect is induced without significantretraining of the instructor as to content or sequence. The instructorproceeds to deliver content and sequence as before, while the studentbody demonstrates visible and invisible measurable gains related toattention/input of information and retention/output of information.Existing lesson plans are integrated into the system and applied withoutmodification.

[0011] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method and apparatusfor information delivery that enables learning at fast rates withimproved degree of retention. Expectancy and attitude, each a hugecontributor to the learning result, enhances learning, especially wheninstructor assistance and the present invention are combined in theclassroom environment.

[0012] Another aspect of the invention relates to a system for providingintegrated information delivery capabilities from audio and videosources into screens and speakers in a classroom. The controlling unitprovides sequence, duration and content modifications to the displaysystem from the sources that provide data. Each source communicates withthe screens, the speakers and the control unit for receiving controlcommands and transferring data signals.

[0013] Yet another aspect of the invention provides for the softwareconfigured to control the content and sequence of information display ondisplay screens. The software includes databases, control commands foreach data source device and specific conditions for formatting the audioand visual display.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention, user-friendly graphical userinterface provides active controls for each data source. A controlpanel, exclusive to a particular data source device is displayed on ascreen, which is used by the instructor to modify the way data from thatsource is manipulated and displayed. The interface provides for anactive source window to display what the screens are actuallydisplaying.

[0015] Another aspect of the invention is represented in an apparatusand method for integrated REMOTE LEARNING facility. The delivery ofeducational information may be over a network system, a cable or relatedsystems, a DVD or CD ROM system, or any other class room technologywhich may use a combination of various systems.

[0016] A further aspect of the invention relates to a unique software. Asoftware product, in accord with this aspect, includes at least onemachine-readable medium and programming code, carried by the medium. Acomputer readable medium, as used herein, may be any physical element orcarrier wave, which can bear instructions or code for performing asequence of steps in a machine-readable form. Computer-readable mediumsinclude, but are not limited to, non-volatile media such as optical ormagnetic disks, volatile media such as dynamic memory, and transmissionmedia such as coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics. Transmissionmedia may comprise acoustic or light waves, such as those generatedduring radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications.Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppydisk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magneticmedium, a CD-ROM, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, papertape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM,and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, as well asmedia bearing the software in a scannable format, a carrier wave asdescribed hereinafter, or any other medium from which a computer canread. A carrier wave medium is any type of signal that may carry digitalinformation representative of the instructions or code for performingthe sequence of steps. Such a carrier wave may be received via awireline or fiber-optic network, via a modem, or as a radio-frequency orinfrared signal, or any other type of signal which a computer or thelike may receive and decode.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIGS. 1A-1C show a classroom equipped with Super Teaching systemand the detail of the display screens.

[0018]FIG. 2 shows an exemplary user interface for controllinginformation delivery in the multi-media environment related to the SuperTeaching apparatus.

[0019]FIG. 3 depicts an overview of the information delivery system ofthe present invention.

[0020]FIG. 4 shows a diagram of different states of the system duringactive and inactive periods.

[0021]FIG. 5 shows a diagram of the computer system configured forperforming the steps of information delivery method according to theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The information delivery system and method represented by thepresent invention are based on increased level and duration of attentionthat results in improved retention of the material. The informationdelivery system is based on the theory that an automated configurationof multimedia in the classroom creates involuntary elevations in humanconcentration uniformly applied to the entire student body. Informationis presented repetitively both in auditory as well as visual formats.Additionally, the system is a saturation learning means for stimulatingboth left and right side of the brain, with more integrated involvementof retention than when such multimedia instructor assistance in thisformat is missing from the class room experience.

[0023] The present techniques implant stronger and more powerfulimpressions in more brain locations creating increased dynamicinvoluntary recall of newly acquired information. The level of attentionis increased as the brain is continuously attracted to the lesson andfinds it more interesting than other available stimulants. The focus ofbrain changes from one topic to another as the level of interest in thefirst one is diminished. The present invention, by creating anenvironment that is interesting to the brain, keeps the attention of thelesson and prevents “mind wandering” and depleted attention to thelesson. The brain is held on topic by the random pattern presented tothe human senses to become the topic that the brain is most interested.

[0024] Flexibility of the system allows applications of differentinstructional plans without need for modifying the system followingevery classroom session. The system is operated at a high level ofautomation and application of technology for education within a typicalclassroom environment. Ease of operation of the system helps instructorsto integrate the system into their classrooms because their interactionwith technology requires virtually no retraining.

[0025] Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a classroom equipped with thepresent information delivery system is shown. Instructional informationis delivered via three display screens 50-1, 50-2 and 50-3 that varyimages with video wall like effect controlled by an algorithm residingin the hardware of the system. The three screens may be part of onelarge screen or separate devices. Each screen may be divided intoportions displaying separate images. The audio part of the informationis delivered to output devices such as speakers 70. Control interface 40at the instructor's station provides a screen and an input device forthe instructor to select one of the information sources available forreceiving information or make changes to their settings. The controlinterface may be a part of a PC with a screen and input devices such asa mouse, keyboard, touch screen, or a stylus. The screen displayscontrol buttons in graphical user interface format and an active sourcewindow to observe what is being displayed on the three display screensor any other output device. Details of the control display will bedescribed later with regard to FIG. 2. The instructional information maybe delivered to only display screens or speakers or both depending onthe desired effect. The screens with controlled patterns of displaysubstantially enhance information flow and impact the level ofconcentration by the student such that a higher level than what ispossible without the effect of the present invention is achieved. Theoptimum number of display screens is linked to the cost of multiplescreens in a classroom and the level of impact they have on improvedlearning and test scores. When the system was operated with threescreens, the results showed optimum learning without unwanteddistractions.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1C, display system 50 includes three displayscreens 50-1, 50-2 and 50-3 where each screen is further divided intomultiple areas. In FIG. 1C, each screen has nine display areas 60although other numbers of display areas may be used. The display systemalternatively includes a single wall screen on which multiple images aredisplayed on different parts of the screen. Each image area may, inturn, be divided into multiple areas. The screens are independentlycontrolled so that different images may be shown in each area withdifferent sequence and duration. Alternatively, one image may occupy allnine areas or any other divisions may be used to display images on partsor all of each display screen. An image in the form of wallpaper mayoccupy all the areas whereas another image is superimposed on one ormore areas. Stored tables operated by the system software providevariables to mix and match images and preclude duplication of imagepattern to minimum frequency.

[0027] The display control component of the software generates commandsthat are sent to servers for switching video images, partitioning eachscreen into display areas or provide special effect schemes. Displayedimages may be manipulated by different special effects such as fader ormixer to provide for transition from one image to another or from onesource to another. Similar control switches provide control and specialeffects for the audio output. In addition to switching between differentaudio sources, special effect, mixing and enhancing the audio qualityare performed as a part of audio control. Audio part of information fromdistant sources as well as local sources such as microphones in theclass are processed to reduce the effect of echo and feedback.

[0028] The instructor is able to override the format as well as thesequence of information displayed by manipulating the control buttonsdisplayed on instructor's control panel. Overriding the control by thesoftware of the displayed information, the display can be modified oradditional information may be displayed, as the instructor findssuitable. The override capabilities affect the way information isdisplayed as well as its content. Other input sources such as cameras,remote learning, Internet and other audio/visual sources may provideadditional or overriding images for display. The override option enablesthe instructor to match the lesson to the class characteristics orupdates that have recently become available. The control may be revertedback to the software at any time that the override option is not needed.

[0029] Another capability that, similar to the override option, allowsflexibility and instructor's input during the instruction, is theannotation device. Notes and comments related to various sections of theinstruction plan are added through annotation device that overlays animage of the comments onto the video output.

[0030] The instructor interaction and manipulation of the data sourcesor devices are achieved through a computer system using any ofhuman-computer interface devices. Upon input by the user, the computerupdates the environment in response to instructor's input through thekeyboard, mouse, touch pads or stylus. The computer then providesfeedback to the instructor by displaying information on the screen. Thesoftware is configured to provide user-controlled graphical objects suchas a graphical representation of the actual control buttons of datasource devices. The display of the graphical representation of thecontrol buttons of a device allows the user to simply select and “push”buttons in the same way an actual device is operated.

[0031] Specific details of how the instructor controls data sources ordevices that provide video images or audio data are shown in FIG. 2. Theexample shown here is displayed on a monitor in the form of a touchpanel or may receive input from different input devices such askeyboard, a mouse, a stylus and a touchpad. In the case of touch panel,the screen has touch control capabilities that requires only touchingthe displayed button when a selection is to be made. User interface 210shown here is an example of displaying a control panel for integratingvarious control components of the information delivery system in theclassroom. Access to each source is included on the control panelthrough a graphical representation. A specific control panel isdisplayed for each source when that source is selected on the controlpanel. The interface for each source control panel emulates the controlbuttons that are typically present on the actual equipment. For example,a VCR control panel has PLAY, STOP, and PAUSE, etc. buttons, in aconfiguration similar to those on the actual equipment, displayed on thescreen. Similarly, other sources such as cameras, microphones, DVD andcable tuners have their specific control panel displayed on the screen.In case of implementing a touch screen display, the device control panelprovides for easy selection and manipulation of displayed informationwithout excessive interruption of the class instruction. A display areaon the left hand side of the touch panel is specified for displayinggraphical representations or icons related to various data sourcedevices. The selection of a multimedia component shown on the left handside of the screen causes the control panel associated with that sourceto be displayed in window 220 for source control panel. Additionaldevice control panels may be simultaneously displayed in window 220,which will be sized to fit more control panels.

[0032] Additionally, active video source window 240 may be displayed onthe remaining area of the touch panel to enable the instructor toobserve the information that is actually displayed on three displayscreens in the classroom without need for looking up and away from thecontrol screen. Images from the cameras or other data sources may bedisplayed in the active source window for instructor's view before orsimultaneously with the display on the classroom screens. Since the PCand the software are Windows®-based and run on current version, otherWindows® capabilities for displaying the active video source window anddevice control panels may be used to modify the way each window isdisplayed or hidden. Using the device control panels and manipulatingthe controls for each device, the instructor provides his/her input tothe lesson before the lesson begins. These instructor input commandscombined with the control instructions of the software, according to aset of rules enforced by the software, provide the information fordisplay on the three display screens, manipulate images shown to theclassroom in different combinations of audio or video effects andincorporate instructor's inputs into the audio and video outputs. Theintegrated display of information and instructor's interaction isapplied as a seamless learning tool for achieving a high degree ofretention and recall of the material.

[0033] The control screen of FIG. 2 further enables information fromvideo players, DVD, cable, disk drive, digital camera or Internet bedisplayed in any pattern that is selected by the instructor. A videostop icon further overrides the automatic image input by replacing ruledriven patterns contained in the software. Thus, the instructorinterjects additional information, as the students' specific learningstate requires. For example, the instructor selects the camera icon anda camera control dialogue box is displayed. Through another selection ofthe active source button, the actual image displayed by the activesource is shown in window 240 of FIG. 2. The instructor adjustsdifferent aspects of the display by manipulating the control buttons ofthe cameras control dialogue box. Once the images from VCR are ready tobe shown, the camera control panel is closed and the VCR controldialogue box comes up on the screen. Therefore, the interactive aspectof the system is integrated with the software driven sections where theinstructor may elect the icon for camera and full screen display andinclude camera images displayed on all three screens and later go backto the software routine and software-selected images from the VCR.Additional interactive effects such as voice or microphone activationfor students may be selected from the control panel for fullinstructor-student interaction.

[0034] Similar control commands related to the content and sequence ofdisplayed information may be received from a remote control device inthe instructor's control panel. The remote control provides control overeach data source in somewhat limited way without the graphical interfaceand the active source display window. However, the remote control optionfrees the instructor from the desk or console at the instructors stationwhere the graphical user interface is displayed on a screen and adds tothe flexibility in movement of the instructor or positioning theinformation display components in a classroom.

[0035] Image deliveries are special effect-induced with a tablecontaining rules for providing multiple effects for displaying imageswith optimum visual impact, such as wipes, swipes, folds, page turn,etc. combined with complimenting audio effects. Timing of the displaypattern is also controlled by the system software and the related rulestable and provides different effects by either simultaneously changingthe images or replacing/rotating them at different intervals.Specifically selected images provide the background pictures for idle ortransition periods when no other activity on the screens are present.Time limits for duration in which displaying each kind of image, such asinstructor's face, students' image or other info, are built into thesoftware to allow maximum effectiveness without unwanted distractionfrom the core educational aspect of the lesson. The instructor furthercontrols the duration and type of display using control buttons and keyson the control screen of FIG. 2. Different types of information such asInternet pages, presentations or spreadsheets and announcements, may bedisplayed in moving, redundant patterns, which reintroduce and reinforcethe information as instructor and students interact and compels higherattention.

[0036] The system rotates images by default, using table driventime-outs or conditional loops to alter images appearing on the screen.At any time interval, images may be overridden by instructor to place asingle source image on all three screens in two modes. First modeoverride provides a time out to again move images after variabledefault. System remembers previous time outs, and varies pattern toprovide maximum alternatives. In the second mode, images remain staticand will not rotate until instructor selects the first mode. System mayalso vary patterns, change the number of areas each screen is dividedinto or move data for redundancy, and involve instructor and studentsinteractively to elevated concentration and retention. Special images ina predetermined combination may be selected to promote higher level ofinteraction and minimize distraction.

[0037] The present system, unlike those using fixed components, remainsup to date as an information delivery and display resource because thedisplay media can be updated with newer tools as they enter the market.For example, the display screens may be replaced at any time with higherresolution models while improved speakers may enhance the audio part.The control scheme of the entire system may also be updated as morepowerful hardware and software components are introduced. This built-inflexibility adds to the value of the tool since new components replacethe old ones without changing the relationship among various parts orthe overall method of delivery of information. Examples of upgradeablecomponents are computers, graphical tools, and Internet friendlysoftware and multimedia software. Virtually all of these components canbecome obsolete quickly. However, with the built-in flexibility, thepressure of modernizing the classroom is reduced and the question as towhat the best technology decision for the next generation is may beanswered more easily. Installations, while only slightly more costlythan a typical computer lab in a modern high school, remains current asa technology for decades. The overall program affordability when weighedagainst achieving the long-term missions, makes the present invention awise choice for cost conscientious entities.

[0038] The present invention operates as an automated system, withminimal direct instructor involvement. The primary benefits from theinstructors' point of view are ease of use and degree of automation thatprovide flexibility without retraining. Cumbersome equipment such aswhite boards, black boards and overheads are removed. Additionally,existing instructor notes may be used without any modifications andinstructors continue the delivery of lessons with minimal retraining,such as about one day. From the students' point of view, classroomsbecome fun to participate while test scores are improved. Fast deliveryof images, sounds or any type of data keeps students interested andelevated concentration and retention. Moreover, students are distractedless having elevated motivation and learning experience.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, a schematic view of the information deliverysystem is shown. When the power is turned on, service control managerstarts up the system, checks the registry and starts all the deviceservers. The system remains in an inactive state with all the datadevices ready in the background. The main system, which controls all thecomponents of information delivery, interfaces with user throughinteractive commands entered in the control panel of FIG. 2. Hardwaredevices and data sources are accessed through serial communications andconnected to the output devices and the main system. Each data sourcedevice communicates in its specific language to a device server thatmonitors and controls that specific device. As soon as a data source isready to provide data, the display control component of the softwaredictates the combination of different types of data to be delivered tothe three display screens according to the conditions controlled by apredetermined set of rules. A collection of databases providingconditions for text, image and audio data and their output sequence,duration and pattern provide input to the system while a system registryprovides other data. The collection of databases includes topics andgeneral background information or accompanying material that may becatalogued according to topic, audience and customized criteria.

[0040] With the seamless control and data retrieval scheme of thesystem, there are only minimal requirements for instructor involvement.The system is designed to assist professional educators with minimaltechnology skill from the educator-user. Instructions occur every dayprecisely as they did prior to the addition of the present system,requiring no substantial change. With most alternative technologiessubstantial instructor retraining is required so that the educator canadapt to the technology. The system is adapted to the educator not theother way around, and stands in the forefront because of instructorassisted design criteria.

[0041] The system, as shown in FIG. 3, allows introduction of additionalthird party medium into the classroom. These materials may includewritten words, pictures, videos or slides and portions of publications.More difficult-to-display materials such as three dimensional objects,presentations, Internet pages and images from remote sites or otheraudio-visual medium may also be added to the lesson without anyadditional programming or interruption. These materials may beintegrated into the lesson as another piece of data from a data sourceand may even be added to the database. Such educational materials aredelivered into the classroom integrated with the system and provideaccelerated learning that automates information delivery and speeds uplearning without pause, reset or delay. The system becomes a seamless,virtually automated, instructor assistance technology operating in realtime mode.

[0042] The present method and the system for information delivery iscomposed of specific software designed for integrated teaching and ofvarious off the shelf technologies, utilized as an integrated learningsystem. The equipment incorporated into the system, for example,include:

[0043] Processors such as Dell Dual-Processor Server with ST Software

[0044] Display components including three display screens such asDa-Lite 73650 motorized projection screen

[0045] Display support, instructor robotic self-tracking cameras andstudent-sensitive tracking cameras such as Sony EVI-D100 pan-tiltcamera, ICI WM30B camera mount, Sony VID-P110 document camera anddocument camera motion detector

[0046] Annotation device such as Boeckeler annotation system PVI-44D

[0047] Data sources such as JVC SR-365U VHS VCR, Pioneer DVD-V7400D DVDplayer, Pioneer 300 DVD changer DV-F07 and Contemporary Research 232-STAtuner/demodulator

[0048] Video equipment such as AutoPatch 8Y-XL 24×48 composite videoswitcher, Zandar MX16 multiviewer, Extron SVS 100 seamless videoswitcher, Sanyo PLC-XP30 3000 Lumens LCD projector, Leitch 2204-2T dualTBC-IV, Antec TV Ator II scan converter and Viewcast Osprey 200 VideoCapture Card

[0049] Audio equipment, surround sound system and speakers such as CrownCM-31 W60 ceiling microphones, EAW L8CX2X0 ceiling speaker, JBL Control25 speaker, QSC CX 254 amplifier, Gentner XAP-800 digital echocanceller, Gentner PSR1212 digital signal processor and Atlas/SoundollerEQ818 speaker black box

[0050] Support hardware such as Da-Lite interface controller, PolycomCodec VS4000 with PRI T1 interface, SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressor,Advantech PCI-1760 relay card, Cyclades Cyclom-YeP 32-port serial portunit and SurgeX SX20-NE surge suppressor

[0051] Cabinets such as Middle Atlantic rack unit

[0052] Instructor Station with touch screen monitor and stylus(providing graphical user interface) such as Elo 18″ Intelli Touch,touch screen monitor

[0053] Microphones such as Shure UC14/83 lavaliere wireless microphoneand Shure UC24/58 handheld wireless microphone

[0054] One instructor-operated overhead, self-focusing, industrial gradecamera/overhead white board

[0055] Cables and connectors

[0056] DVD, video and cable interface

[0057] Internet interface on high speed access

[0058] Turning to FIG. 4, a diagram showing different ON/OFF states ofthe system provides different stages of standby and inactive modes. InOFF state, the system is in complete shut down state and power may alsobe cut off from the system. The system is started into an inactive statein which all devices are off and no display on the screen may be presentexcept for the user login dialogue box. Upon successful completion oflogin process, all devices are turned on, user interface becomes activeand the display screens show image patterns from a default video source.However, when user logs off, the user is taken back to system activemode, which either allows to stay in user interface inactive or loginanother time and cause the user interface become active. In systemactive state, the required devices are on, user login dialog box isdisplayed and the screens display default wallpaper images. A built-intimer measures the period of inactivity and if exceeds a certain limit,automatically takes the system back into inactive state. From inactivestate, system manager could shut down the system in order to go into theOFF state or allow further user login by displaying the user logindialog box.

[0059] Educators apply the present invention as an integrated singlesystem to promote learning via the Internet, remote learning, cable,VCR, DVD, CD-ROM, computer soft ware programs and via live in-classroominteractive media. Contrary to educational applications where the systemin the classroom is typically one monitor or TV set, the presentinvention delivers educational content via three display screens thatvary images with video wall like effects in algorithmic patterns thatenhance attention and retention. The software used in the systemprovides the steps for method of information delivery via the mainsystem by manipulating images displayed in the classroom.

[0060] The implemented software architecture is a rule-based system thatincludes a group of databases and sets of predetermined rules. Arule-based configuration relies on the set of rules that are programmedin a procedural computer language. Different sets of rules aredetermined and measured according to the results of brain learningprocess and how the optimum rules correspond to increased test scoresfor the students who benefited from the system. The software uses anauto-switching algorithm that follows the sequence and values obtainedbased on the rules applied to the content of a related database. Forexample, if the instructor selects the instructor camera, the algorithmcauses activation and deactivation of a series of other sources. Somesources may be combined together or with other sources as secondarysources in the background to provide the displayed images. Theconditions imposed by the applicable rules in the system software andthe related databases determine particular display sequence, displayduration and the combination of images on different areas of eachscreen.

[0061] The system starts up from OFF state to inactive state and allowsuser login when dialogue box appears and allows login information to beinputted. The system is based on Windows®-based operating system and isconfigured for compatible graphical user interface for controlling thedata sources. After successful login and entering user interface activestate, default nodes such as the camera, VCR or microphone are activatedand provide audio and visual information to be displayed on the screens.The system is based on a three-tier model which includes data/sourcelayer, application layer and user interface layer. Databases and datasources are in the first layer and provide the content of displayedinformation and may include databases, audiovisual data source devicesor remote sources.

[0062] A rule-based software controls the hierarchy and the sequence fordisplaying images from these sources of data. After the start up stage,the data layer makes all servers check their corresponding registry andinsure that all devices are on and communicating properly. The middleapplication or meta layer operates the communication between userinterface and data layer through corresponding servers. For example, inorder to start the VCR and run the system, the application layer handlesthe logic according to the predetermined set of rules and communicatesthrough the corresponding server the necessary control commands to theVCR. After the VCR is started, the application layer provides anyfeedback or status data received from the VCR to the user interfaceand/or the data layer.

[0063] At least portions of the invention are intended to be implementedon or over a network such as a LAN, WAN or the Internet in order toshare the information or receive additional lessons to be combined withthe one in session. The network connection may take place in order toshare the lesson with a remote location or receive information and/orparticipate in interactive discussions with other classrooms.Alternatively, Internet users who are interested in the topic or requireclass attendance while being away, i.e., absent students andcorrespondence course participants may share the instructor in theclassroom.

[0064] An example of such a network is described in FIG. 5 depicting ablock diagram that illustrates the main server system as computer system100 upon which an embodiment of the invention may be implemented. System100 includes a bus 102 or other communication mechanism forcommunicating information, and one or more processor(s) 104 coupled withbus 102 for processing information. System 100 also includes a mainmemory 106, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamicstorage device, coupled to bus 102 for storing information andinstructions to be executed by processor(s) 104. Main memory 106 mayalso be used for storing temporary variables or other intermediateinformation during execution of instructions to be executed byprocessor(s) 104. System 100 further includes a read only memory (ROM)108 or other static storage device coupled to bus 102 for storing staticinformation and instructions for processor(s) 104. Storage device 110,such as a magnetic disk or optical disk, is provided and coupled to bus102 for storing information and instructions.

[0065] User interface at the instructor station is achieved throughterminal 130 that provides a touch panel incorporating the controlelements shown in the control panel of FIG. 2. The touch panel may be acathode ray tube (CRT) or any other medium for display and input.Communication link 132 connects the touch panel to the main systemthrough bus 102. Computer system 100 may be coupled via bus 102 andcommunication link 122 to personal computer (PC) 150 having display 158,such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), for displaying information to a PCuser. Other output devices such as printers may be used for providinginformation to the user. PC 150 is used at the instruction station andmay provide data as another data source device. It includes processor(CPU) 152 where an input device 154, equipped with alphanumeric andother keys, is coupled to PC 150 for communicating information andcommand selections to system 100. Other user input device is cursorcontrol 156, which includes devices such as a mouse, a trackball, orcursor direction keys for communicating direction information andcommand selections to PC 150 and for controlling cursor movement ondisplay 158. This input device typically has two degrees of freedom intwo axes, a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis (e.g., y), thatallows the device to specify positions in a plane. The input device andcursor control support the graphical user interface on the display.

[0066] Main system 100 operates in response to processor(s) 104executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained inmain memory 106. Such instructions may be read into main memory 106 fromanother computer-readable medium, such as storage device 110. Executionof the sequences of instructions contained in main memory 106 causesprocessor(s) 104 to perform the process steps described herein. Inalternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of orin combination with software instructions to implement the invention.Thus, embodiments of the invention are not limited to any specificcombination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0067] The term “computer-readable medium” as used herein refers to anymedium that participates in providing instructions to processor(s) 104for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including but notlimited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media.Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical or magnetic disks,such as storage device 110. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, suchas main memory 106. Transmission media includes coaxial cables; copperwire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise bus 102.Transmission media can also take the form of acoustic or light waves,such as those generated during radio wave and infrared datacommunications.

[0068] Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, afloppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, or any othermagnetic medium, a CD-ROM, any other optical medium, punchcards, papertape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM,and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrierwave as described hereinafter, or any other medium from which a computercan read. Various forms of computer readable media may be involved incarrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions toprocessor(s) 104 for execution. For example, the instructions mayinitially be carried on a magnetic disk of a remote computer. The remotecomputer can load the instructions into its dynamic memory and send theinstructions over a telephone line using a modem. A modem local tocomputer system 100 can receive the data on the telephone line and usean infrared transmitter to convert the data to an infrared signal. Aninfrared detector can receive the data carried in the infrared signaland appropriate circuitry can place the data on bus 102. Bus 102 carriesthe data to main memory 106, from which processor(s) 104 retrieves andexecutes the instructions. The instructions received by main memory 106may optionally be stored on storage device 110 either before or afterexecution by processor(s) 104.

[0069] System 100 also includes a communication interface 112 coupled tobus 102. Communication interface 112 provides two-way data communicationcoupling to device server 140 through communication link 142. A serialcommunication link, such as RS232 may be used for link 142, althoughother types of communication links can be used according to the specificdata transfer configuration. Device server 140 communicates with datasources or devices #1 through #N, such as VCR, camera and microphone,etc. and receives feedback data from each device using communicationlinks 144. Each device may be accessed through its direct input 148,which is usually the buttons and control panel associated with thatparticular device. Device server 140 transmits commands and data fromthe main system and the devices over communication link 146 to output200. Same data is available for display on the monitor of instructor'sstation in the active source window, described in FIG. 2. Data from eachdevice is controlled and modified according to the instructions in thesoftware before delivery to the server for display on visual output 202or broadcast on audio output 204. Device server 140 provides data,sequence and timing of information delivered to output 200 according toa set hierarchical scheme in the software instructions, instructor'sinput or any other active control features.

[0070] Additional links are made to network link 120 that is connectedto a local network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN) or the Internet. Forexample, communication interface 112 may be an integrated servicesdigital network (ISDN) card or a modem to provide a data communicationconnection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As anotherexample, communication interface 112 may be a local area network (LAN)card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN.Wireless links may also be implemented. In any such implementation,communication interface 112 sends and receives electrical,electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streamsrepresenting various types of information. Network link 120 typicallyprovides data communication through one or more networks to other datadevices. All networks use electrical, electromagnetic or optical signalsthat carry digital data streams. The signals through the variousnetworks and the signals on network link 120 and through communicationinterface 112, which carry the digital data to and from main computersystem 100, are exemplary forms of carrier waves transporting theinformation.

[0071] Computer system 100 can send messages and receive data, includingprogram code, through the network(s), network link 120 and communicationinterface 112. In the Internet example, a server might transmit arequested code for an application program through Internet, localnetwork and communication interface 112. Processor(s) 104 may executethe received code as it is received, and/or stored in storage device110, or other non-volatile storage for later execution. In this manner,computer system 100 may obtain application code in the form of a carrierwave.

[0072] Although the present invention has been described and illustratedin detail, it is clearly understood that the same is by way ofillustration and example only and is not to be taken by way oflimitation. One skilled in the art could also vary the design of thefeatures described using known elements to accomplish what is describedin this disclosure without departing from the principals that aredescribed.

APPENDIX A

[0073] CD ROM Contents:

[0074] A description of contents of one CD-ROM submitted as an appendixto this application is as follows:

[0075] This CD-ROM contains one Readme file and three directories namedDatabase, Software and Specification. The Readme file contains the filetype and program used for creating and opening the files in eachdirectory.

[0076] Database directory was created using Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 andhas the following files:

[0077] ST_Rules.txt

[0078] stdb_Data.MDF

[0079] The files in Specification directory may be viewed usingMicrosoft Visio 2000 SR1 except for the .pdf file which may be reviewedusing Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Specification directory has thefollowing files:

[0080] ST Software Specification.pdf

[0081] ST_ERD.vsd

[0082] ST_System.vsd

[0083] STConfig.vsd

[0084] StidsGUI.vsd

[0085] stsmgr.vsd

[0086] STUserLogon.vsd

[0087] SystemState.vsd

[0088] TVMgr.vsd

[0089] TVMgr_SourceActivation.vsd

[0090] The files in the Software directory may be read using MicrosoftVisual C++ 6.0 Service Pack 5. The Software directory has the followingsubdirectories:

[0091] Device Servers subdirectory includes files that provide directcontrol of hardware devices such as cameras, DVD, VCR and audio devices.

[0092] ST_CameraSonyD100.exe

[0093] ST_CameraSonyD30.exe

[0094] ST_CodecPolycomVS4000.exe

[0095] ST_DemodCR232STA.exe

[0096] ST_DocCamCanonRE350.exe

[0097] ST_DOCCAMSONYP110.exe

[0098] ST_DVDPioneerF07.exe

[0099] ST_DVDPioneerV7400.exe

[0100] ST_MViewZandarMX16.exe

[0101] ST_ProjectorSanyoPLCXP20N.exe

[0102] ST_Relay1760.exe

[0103] ST_SwitchAP8YXL.exe

[0104] ST_SwitchGXAP800.exe

[0105] ST_TransExtronSVS100.exe

[0106] ST_VCRJVCSR365U.exe

[0107] Diagnostics subdirectory includes four subdirectories, eachcontaining programs that are used to help debug hardware problems andensure that hardware devices are functioning properly. Thesubdirectories are:

[0108] DiagAutopatch8YXL.exe for: Composite Video Switcher Diagnostics

[0109] DiagGentnerXAP800.exe for: Gentner XAP800 diagnostics

[0110] DiagRelay1760.exe for: Advantech Relay Card diagnostics

[0111] DiagZandarMX16.exe for: Zandar MX16 Multiviewer diagnostics

[0112] Meta Servers subdirectory is divided into further subdirectoriescontaining files that provide an abstract layer between the userinterface layer and the device control layer. The subdirectories are:

[0113] ST_METACAMERA.dll

[0114] ST_MetaCodec.dll

[0115] ST_MetaDemod.dll

[0116] ST_METADOCCAM.dll

[0117] ST_MetaDVD.dll

[0118] ST_MetaMultiView.dll

[0119] ST_MetaProjector.dl

[0120] ST_MetaRelay.dll

[0121] ST_MetaSwitchAudio.dll

[0122] ST_MetaSwitchVideo.dll

[0123] ST_MetaTrans.dll

[0124] ST_MetaVCR.dll: VCR

[0125] User Interface subdirectory is divided into furthersubdirectories containing files that either directly interact with theuser through a standard Windows interface, or provide indirect supportwithin the interface layer. The subdirectories are:

[0126] ST_Buttons.dll

[0127] ST_Media.dll

[0128] ST_TVMgr.dll

[0129] ST_RulesEngine.dll

[0130] STEloTouch.dll

[0131] STErrorMessages.dll

[0132] STIDS.exe

[0133] Utilities subdirectory is divided into further subdirectoriescontaining miscellaneous files. The subdirectories are:

[0134] STAddressBook.dll

[0135] StsMgr.exe

[0136] STHook.dll

[0137] STLogon.dll

[0138] STPowerPoint.dll

[0139] STSecurity.dll

[0140] STConfig.exe

[0141] STSerialPort.dll

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer implemented delivery system forinstructional information comprising: at least one source that providesdata; at least one user interface that receives from a user inputrelated to the data; a plurality of output devices that receives audioand visual components of the instructional information; a processor thatgenerates audio and visual components of instructional information fromprovided data to at least one output device according to a softwarealgorithm containing at least one predetermined rule; and communicationlinks that transmit data and information between the at least onesource, the user interface, the processor and the output devices.
 2. Thecomputer implemented delivery system of claim 1, wherein said at leastone source comprises at least one of VCR, DVD, cameras, audio tuners,Internet and PC-based presentations.
 3. The computer implementeddelivery system of claim 1, wherein said at least one predetermined ruledetermines order and sequence in which data from each source is to beapplied to the output devices.
 4. The computer implemented deliverysystem of claim 2, wherein said user input determines which sourceprovides data.
 5. The computer implemented delivery system of claim 1,wherein software includes a control component that determines order andsequence in which data from each source is to be applied to the outputdevices.
 6. The computer implemented delivery system of claim 1, whereinthe plurality of output devices comprise three display screens or a setof speakers.
 7. The computer implemented delivery system of claim 6,wherein each of the three display screens is further divided into aplurality of viewing areas in a predetermined pattern.
 8. The computerimplemented delivery system of claim 7, wherein at least one displayscreen is divided into four equal viewing areas.
 9. The computerimplemented delivery system of claim 7, wherein at least one displayscreen is divided into nine equal viewing areas.
 10. The computerimplemented delivery system of claim 7, wherein at least one displayscreen is divided into sixteen equal viewing areas.
 11. The computerimplemented delivery system of claim 7, wherein at least one displayscreen is divided into two or more unequal viewing areas.
 12. Thecomputer implemented delivery system of claim 6, wherein each of thethree display screens is further divided into a plurality of viewingareas in a pattern different from the other screens.
 13. A computersystem comprising: at least one source that provides data; a processorthat receives and processing data related to instructional informationto be applied to a plurality of output devices according to a softwarealgorithm and at least one predetermined rule; a plurality of outputdevices comprises: a) a plurality of video output devices that displayimages related to the processed information; b) a plurality of audiooutput devices that broadcast sounds related to at least one of theimages; at least one user interface that provides comments andinstructions related to the displayed images and the broadcast sound;communication links that transmit information and instructions; and dataswitches that activate and deactivate data source devices according to apredetermined software algorithm, whereby data switches provide a uniqueaudio and visual output combination set by a plurality of rulesassociated with the software algorithm.
 14. A computer systemimplemented over a network for delivering instructional informationcomprising: a network; at least one user interface connected to saidnetwork; at least one processor connected to said network that generatesaudio and visual instructional information according to input from theat least one user and at least one predetermined rule; at least onesource that provides data over said network; a plurality of outputdevice that produce audio and visual components of the instructionalinformation; at least one source that captures information related tolive interaction of an instructor and providing captured information tothe audio and visual components; and at least one device serverconnected to said network and configured to receive an input from atleast one user over said network, to receive data from at least onesource over said network, transmit information associated with the datato the processor, and receive instructions from the processor accordingto at least one predetermined rule that transmit the generatedinstructional information to the plurality of output devices.
 15. Thecomputer system for delivering instructional information according toclaim 14, wherein the network is LAN.
 16. The computer system fordelivering instructional information according to claim 14, wherein thenetwork is WAN.
 17. The computer system for delivering instructionalinformation according to claim 14, wherein the network is Internet. 18.The computer system for delivering instructional information accordingto claim 14, wherein at least one of the processor, the device serverand data sources communicates remotely with the others over the network.19. A computer implemented method for delivering instructionalinformation, comprising the steps of: providing data from at least onesource; receiving from a user control information related to the data;generating, in a processor, commands to control audio and visualinstructional information from provided data according to the user inputand at lease one predetermined rule; and applying audio and visualcomponents of information to a plurality of output devices; andcommunicating data, user input and instructional information to theprocessor and the output devices, whereby the output devices are used tosupport classroom instructions by an instructor.
 20. The computerimplemented method of claim 19, wherein communicating data is carriedout over serial communication links.
 21. The computer implemented methodof claim 19, wherein the user provides input through a graphical userinterface.
 22. The computer implemented method of claim 21, wherein thegraphical user interface is displayed on a touch panel.
 23. The computerimplemented method of claim 21, wherein the graphical user interfaceincludes graphical representation of control panels corresponding toeach data source and each control panel emulates the actual controlbuttons on the data source device.
 24. The computer implemented methodof claim 23, wherein the graphical user interface further includes anarea for an active source window displaying an image that is shown onthe output devices.
 25. The computer implemented method of claim 24,wherein the active source window displays images from other videosources comprising cameras, VCR, DVD and Internet.
 26. The computerimplemented method of claim 21, wherein an annotation device is coupledwith the graphical user interface.
 27. The computer implemented methodof claim 21, wherein the graphical user interface further includesoverride capabilities, which comprises stopping one data source andstarting another data source.
 28. A machine-readable data storage mediumencoded with a set of machine-executable instructions for using a dataprocessing system to perform a method for delivering instructionalinformation, said method comprising the steps of: providing data from atleast one source; receiving from a user control information related tothe data; generating in a processor commands to control audio and visualinstructional information from provided data according to the user inputand at least one predetermined rule; and applying audio and visualcomponents of instructional information to a plurality of outputdevices; and communicating data, user input and instructionalinformation to the processor and the output devices.
 29. An apparatusfor generating and delivering instructional information comprising: aplurality of data source devices that provide recorded data; a processorthat receives and modifies data to generate instructional informationfrom provided data; a plurality of display screens and a plurality ofspeakers that broadcast visual and audio components of the instructionalinformation; communication links that transmit visual and audiocomponents to the display screens and speakers; a plurality of datasources that provide data captured from a presentation by an instructorconducted simultaneously with broadcasting the visual and audiocomponents; and a server provided with a plurality of switches thatselecting one or more data sources to provide audio and visualcomponents to the output devices based on instructions from theprocessor according to a software algorithm containing at least onepredetermined rule, whereupon order and sequence in which data from eachsource is to be applied is determined.
 30. Computer-readableinstructions for delivering instructional information embodied in acarrier wave, comprising the steps of: providing data from at least onesource; receiving control information related to the data from a user;generating in a processor commands to control audio and visualinstructional information from provided data according to the user inputand a software algorithm containing at least one predetermined rule; andapplying audio and visual components of information to a plurality ofoutput devices; and transmitting data and information between the atleast one source, the user, the processor and the plurality of outputdevices.
 31. A graphical user interface communicating user input to andfrom a system including a processor, data source devices, device serversand output devices in response to instructions according to a softwareprogram containing a predetermined set of rules that generateinstructional information to be displayed on a plurality of screens andbroadcast over a plurality of speakers, the graphical user interfacecomprising: a first portion including graphical representationsidentifying a plurality of data source devices individually; a secondportion on the remaining area including: a) graphical representationcorresponding to at least a control panel that displays a set of controlbuttons corresponding to a selected data source device, the controlpanel includes graphical representation and relative positioning ofbuttons substantially similar to buttons on the actual data sourcedevice; b) an active source window that displays an actual imagedisplayed on the screens; a graphical representation corresponding to acontrol feature that overrides a sequence and pattern of displayingimages on the screens driven by the software program to stop an outputfrom one data source or start another data source to be applied to thescreens and the speakers; and the graphical user interface is displayedon a touch panel screen that displays information and receives inputactivated by user's touch.
 32. The graphical user interface of claim 31,further comprising an annotation device coupled with the graphical userinterface that adds comments by the user, said comments beingsuperimposed over the image displayed on the screens.
 33. A method forgenerating a graphical user interface for presentation to a user, saidgraphical user interface communicating a user input with a systemincluding a processor, data source devices, device servers and outputdevices in response to instructions according to a software programcontaining a predetermined set of rules that generates instructionalinformation to be displayed on a plurality of screens and broadcast overa plurality of speakers, the method comprising: generating a first setof data representing the graphical user interface as a background windowto be displayed; generating a second set of data representing aplurality of data source devices; generating a third set of datarepresenting a control panel including control buttons corresponding toeach of a plurality of data source devices; generating a fourth set ofdata representing an active source window that displays an actual imagedisplayed on the output devices; and the graphical user interfaceallowing user input by touching a surface of the user interface ondisplayed representations.
 34. The method for generating a graphicaluser interface for presentation to a user according to claim 33, whereina graphical representation corresponding to a control panel for a devicethat provides data to the output devices is displayed.
 35. The methodfor generating a graphical user interface for presentation to a useraccording to claim 33, wherein information corresponding to the functionof that button is sent back to the device server each time a controlbutton is touched.
 36. The method for generating a graphical userinterface for presentation to a user according to claim 33, wherein upona selection of a data source device, control panel corresponding toselected device is displayed.
 37. A student learning system for improvedattention and retention of information during instructions, comprising:at least three display screens that display instructional information;and circuitry that supports displaying different video components oneach screen.
 38. The student learning system of claim 37, whereincontent of video components delivered to each screen is switched inaccordance with a specific algorithm.
 39. The student learning system ofclaim 38, wherein the algorithm is driven by at least one rule.
 40. Acomputer system for delivering instructional information comprising: atleast one user interface; at least one processor that generates audioand visual instructional information according to input from the atleast one user and at least one predetermined rule; at least one sourcethat provides data; a plurality of output device that produces audio andvisual components of the instructional information; at least one sourcethat captures information related to live interaction of an instructorand providing captured information to the audio and visual components;and at least one device server configured to receive an input from atleast one user, to receive data from at least one source, transmitinformation associated with the data to the processor, and receiveinstructions from the processor according to at least one predeterminedrule that transmits the generated instructional information to theplurality of output devices.
 41. The computer implemented method ofclaim 19, wherein the plurality of output devices comprise three displayscreens or a set of speakers.